Research Center: Emory University Hospital and Grady Behavioral Health Clinic
Locations: Grady Behavioral Health Outpatient Center:  10 Park Place SE, Atlanta, GA 30303, and Emory University Hospital:  1364 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30322
Lead Researcher: David R. Goldsmith, M.D., MSc
IRB: This study has been reviewed and approved by the Emory IRB, Grady Hospital ROC, and NIMH Data Safety Monitoring Board

Living with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder can make everyday tasks feel impossible. Researchers at Emory and Grady want to understand why these symptoms happen and how to better treat them in the future.

This study is exploring whether inflammation in the body could be part of the cause, and whether an anti-inflammatory medication might help. All study procedures and transportation are provided at no cost. Compensation is available. Take part in research that could lead to better options for the future, starting with you.

• Participants may receive either the study medication or a placebo.
• Participants will be compensated up to $660 for participating in this study. Compensation will only be provided to eligible participants who complete the study.
• Participants will be contributing valuable information that may benefit those with schizophrenia in the future.
• Participants will be helping to advance medical research.

• You will receive a detailed outline of all details of the study, including treatment, risks, and procedures, and you will be given the chance to ask study staff questions before you decide whether to participate.
• If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you can withdraw at any time
• Your records relating to this study and any other information received will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by the law.

Eligible:

• Men and women aged 18–55 who are diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder
• Must be willing to use birth control (if applicable), able to pass a urine drug screen (besides marijuana (marijuana is not exclusionary)), and comfortable with research procedures like MRI and IV infusion
• Must be located in the Metro Atlanta Area
• Must be able to attend up to 11 study visits at the research site over approximately 1 month

Ineligible:

• Taking clozapine, steroid pills, immune-affecting medications, regular anti-inflammatories, minocycline, or certain supplements (like fish oil, turmeric, or probiotics)
• Has any history of organ transplant, recent vaccination (within the past month), or drug/medication allergies or cancer, HIV, hepatitis infection, autoimmune disorders, rheumatologic disorders, seizure disorder, or congestive heart failure
• Has MRI contraindications (e.g., metal implants, claustrophobia)
• Has tattoos that were not professionally done

Emory University
Emory University is a leading private research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. Founded in 1836, Emory is known for its rigorous academic programs, commitment to innovation, and strong emphasis on public service. It houses top-ranked schools in medicine, public health, law, business, and the liberal arts, and is affiliated with one of the nation’s premier healthcare systems, Emory Healthcare.

Grady Behavioral Health Clinic
Grady Behavioral Health Clinic is a key component of Grady Health System, one of the largest public health systems in the United States, based in Atlanta, Georgia. The clinic provides comprehensive mental health services to adults, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy. With a focus on accessible, community-based care, the clinic plays a vital role in serving diverse populations and addressing complex behavioral health needs across the region.